Geological Field Training
Get your boots dirty. Learn Earth Sciences the way it’s meant to be learned—out in the field.
Build real field skills in four weeks. The University at Buffalo’s Geological Field Training Course turns classroom knowledge into real-world experience. In just four weeks, upper-level geology and environmental science students gain practical, boots-on-the-ground skills in mapping, observation and problem-solving. With more than 50 years of history and over 2,100 alumni, this course is a UB summer tradition that builds confidence and careers.
How it runs:
Every other year, the course alternates between Western and Eastern destinations. Both versions deliver the same core outcomes—hands-on experience, professional field techniques and memories that last a lifetime—but each offers its own landscape, logistics and cost structure.
Apply to our Western Camp:
The deadline to apply and submit your deposit is January 31.
Students, faculty and staff at Utah’s Canyonlands. (Photo credit: Brandon Keim)
May 20–June 15, 2026
Get ready to take your studies out West.
The Western Geological Field Training Course immerses you in the landscapes that define North American geology. Over four weeks, you’ll study diverse terrains across Colorado and Utah, build professional field mapping skills and gain experience that sets you apart in graduate school and the workforce.
This mobile camp experience is designed for students who want more than textbook learning—who want to see, touch, and interpret the rocks that shape our planet.
Learn about:
The deadline to apply and submit your deposit is January 31.
- It’s a traveling camp. Gain exposure to multiple regions beyond the limits of a single fixed station.
- It’s in the Western U.S. Experience some of the most spectacular outcrops and geologic diversity in the world.
- Short and convenient. A four-week format gives you time to work, travel or relax afterward.
- Expert instruction. Learn from seasoned field geologists with decades of experience and a passion for teaching.
Students star gazing in Davis Canyon, (Photo credit Brandon Keim)
The Western Geological Field Training Course is open to upper-level geology and environmental science students from any college or university. For more than five decades, students have joined UB’s instructors to study in three key field areas—southern Colorado, southern Utah and northern Utah.
You’ll start among crystalline rocks, then move to sites featuring folded and faulted sedimentary rocks. Students and staff live in tents, cook together and experience a true outdoor learning community. Be ready for long hikes, shifting weather and unforgettable scenery.
The total cost includes tuition, University fees and the course fee.
Undergraduate (6 credit hours)
- NYS resident cost: $4,742.96
- Non-NYS resident cost: $9,890.96
Graduate (2 credit hours)
- NYS resident cost: $3,413.32
- Non-NYS resident cost: $4,553.32
Not included: travel to and from Denver, personal camping gear and meals during travel days.
Tuition and University Fees
Tuition rates are based on residency status and credit hours. UB has not yet posted 2026 rates, so 2025 rates are included below for reference.
Tuition and fees: $2,534.96
- Tuition per credit hour: $295.00
- Comprehensive fee per credit hour: $100.62
- Academic Excellence and Success fee per credit hour: $26.04
- Transcript fee: $5.00
Tuition and fees: $7,682.96
- Tuition per credit hour: $1,153.00
- Comprehensive fee per credit hour: $100.62
- Academic Excellence and Success fee per credit hour: $26.04
- Transcript fee: $5.00
Tuition and fees: $1,205.32
- Tuition per credit hour: $471.00
- Comprehensive fee per credit hour: $100.62
- Academic Excellence and Success fee per credit hour: $26.04
- Transcript fee: $5.00
- Activity fee: $5.00
Tuition and fees: $2,345.32
- Tuition per credit hour: $1,041.00
- Comprehensive fee per credit hour: $100.62
- Academic Excellence and Success fee per credit hour: $26.04
- Transcript fee: $5.00
Fees are subject to change.
Refer to UB Student Accounts for the most up-to-date rates.
Course Fee
The course fee covers transportation, camp meals, lodging during travel and a field notebook.
Field Course Fee: $2,208
Class size: Limited to 20 students (first-come, first-served)
Deadlines:
- Deposit due January 31, 2026: $450 (non-refundable; required to reserve your spot)
- Remainder due April 30, 2026: $1,758
Before applying, you should have completed the following (or equivalent) courses:
- ERT 205: Earth Materials (Mineralogy/Petrology)
- ERT 315: Sedimentary Geology & Paleontology
- ERT 326: Structural Geology/Global Tectonics
For questions about equivalent coursework, email Dr. James Boyle at jamesboy@buffalo.edu.
Physical and Safety Requirements
Students can expect:
Long, beautiful hikes through rough terrain
Exposure to hot temperatures and potential rainstorms
All-day fieldwork from 8 a.m.–4 p.m.
Travel and Packing
Transportation
Students are responsible for their travel arrangements to and from Denver. Transportation during the camp is included in the fee.
Packing Checklist
Prepare for diverse weather conditions. Download this packing checklist to ensure you have the right gear.
Western Campsites
Students camp in tents during majority of course, with access to toilets and occasional showers at motels or campsites.
For more information or questions, please email the Department of Earth Sciences.